By WebMD News Staff
Two vaccines could be approved for use in the United States by the end of next week, a third is coming soon. Here’s a closer look at all three and what it might mean for you.
Vaccine developer:
Pfizer: How it works - Messenger RNA
When approved/expected - December 11
What % of people did it protect from getting infected in clinical studies? - 95%
How many shots do you need? - Two does, 3 weeks apart
What are the side effects? - Fatigue, headache, chills, muscle pain, especially after the second dose
How many doses will be available, and when? - 1.3 billion in 2021
Who is it recommended for? - People 16 years and older
What about pregnant women and nursing moms? - There's not enough data yet for a recommendation. CDC suggests women talk to their doctor.
Is there anyone who shouldn't get the vaccine? - People with a history of serious allergic reactions. There is not enough data to make a recommendation for people with a compromised immune system.
Moderna: How it works - Messenger RNA
When approved/expected - Advisory committee meeting Dec. 17; approval expected 24 to 48 hours after
What % of people did it protect from getting infected in clinical studies? - 94.1%
How many shots do you need? - Two doses, 4 weeks apart
What are the side effects? - Fever, muscle aches, headaches lasting a few days. Effects worse after second dose.
How many doses will be available, and when? - 20 million, starting Dec. 21; 80 million for U.S. in 2021
Who is it recommended for? - Not yet available.
What about pregnant women and nursing moms? - Not yet available.
Is there anyone who shouldn't get the vaccine? - Not yet available.
AstraZeneca: How it works - Inactivated cold virus
When approved/expected - Has not submitted application for emergency use authorization in U.S.
What % of people did it protect from getting infected in clinical studies? - 70%
How many shots do you need? - Two doses, a month apart
What are the side effects? - Not yet known
How many doses will be available, and when? - 3 billion planned for 2021
Who is it recommended for? - Not yet available.
What about pregnant women and nursing moms? - Not yet available.
Is there anyone who shouldn't get the vaccine? - Not yet available.